Carbon Dioxide Incubator

SOP for REVCO CO2 Incubator (100/1000 Series)

This procedure outlines the operating and maintenance instructions for the CO2 incubator. The incubator is used for cell culture to duplicate the in vitro environment (moisture, acidity, etc.) needed for bacterial or mammalian cells. The biotechnology students with guidance from the professor run and maintain the incubator.

Operation

Confirm that the unit is connected to the appropriate power supply and CO2 tanks.

Push the power switch to the ON position if not already running. Cold starts require 6-8 hours heat stabilization time. Verify the temperature is correct for the cells that are being grown (37* +/-.15 C for bacterial or mammalian cells).

If using CO2, increase the valve (turn clockwise) to start the gas flow. Check the regulator to verify the pressure is 15 psi.

Set the CO2 incubator by pressing the desired concentration. Use the chart in the operator's manual to set the flow meters. For example, for 5% CO2, use 50 CO2 CCM and 1.0 for air LPM.

Load the incubator. Make sure the inner glass door is locked by turning the knob up. Purge by pressing the desired concentration of CO2.

Maintenance

Clean the interior with disinfectant/detergent, followed by a distilled water rinse, then a final rubdown with a 70% alcohol solution. The shelves can be removed for cleaning or autoclaving.

Check and replace gas filters periodically.

Calibrate the incubator temperature by adjusting the display readout to agree with a thermometer (with increments of at least 0.1* C) placed in the interior. The display should read to within 0.15* C of the temperature set point. Use the provided screwdriver to turn the potentiometer screw in the temperature display rectangle to adjust the readout to the temperature of the thermometer. Clockwise turns increase the reading, while counterclockwise decrease it.

CO2 Regulator for REVCO Incubator

Start with all valves in the off position.

Tank valve turned down clockwise completely.

Regulator valve turned out counterclockwise until it feel free.

Line valve turned down clockwise completely.

Slowly open tank valve one full turn counterclockwise.

Turn regulator valve clockwise until 15 psi is shown on gauge on left.